RANDOLPH COUNTY, Ark -- More than 50 animals were rescued from a puppy mill in Northeastern Arkansas.

The Randolph County Sheriff's Office found the dogs outside in the frigid temperatures with icicles hanging on their fur. They did not have shelter, food or water, and were shackled to poles and trees. Some of the animals were so emaciated and matted, they could not even move.

We've all heard the warnings about buying puppies from pet stores. But as Local 10 Animal Advocate Jacey Birch found out, instead of buying food and toys, new owners could be saddled with a sick animal and mounting medical bills.